Student Jobs

Children’s Theater of Madison (CTM), is dedicated to sparking imagination and building community through the creation and experience of theater. For over 55 years, CTM has been part of the cultural fabric of South-Central Wisconsin, providing exceptional theater productions and educational programs for youth and families. Inclusion is a core value at CTM, and creating an inclusive workplace and work culture is essential. To learn more about us, visit ctmtheater.org/get-to-know-us.

We are hiring multiple Lead Ushers for weekend performances held at MYArts. Shifts typically range from 4-8 hours on Saturdays and Sundays, and occasional 4 hour shifts on Friday nights. Scheduling is based on the individual’s availability. 

The scheduled weekends are listed below.

• October 11th - 19th, 2025 
• November 29th - December 21st, 2025 
• February 7th - 22nd, 2026
• March 7th - 22nd, 2026 
• May 2nd - 17th, 2026 
• Four weekends during the summer of 2026.

It has on-site work requirements at Madison Youth Arts Center (MYArts). There is bicycle parking onsite; numerous nearby bus routes; street and garage parking. This role involves standing, walking, and occasional bursts of rapid activity. Reasonable accommodations can be made.

THE ROLE:

You are our House Manager’s right-hand person for CTM performances held at MYArts (Madison Youth Arts Center.) As the Lead Usher, you will actively support the smooth operation of our theater’s front of house. This includes creating a welcoming environment for patrons, troubleshooting ticket issues, and coordinating volunteers. 

This flexible, stipended role is great for those who want to gain leadership experience, sharpen their problem-solving skills, and earn money while seeing great theater. It will be filled by multiple people who will step in as needed. Lead Ushers cover select weekend shows making it a perfect role for dedicated individuals who want to contribute but can’t commit to every performance.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING:

• Provide exceptional customer service to patrons.
• Take initiative to anticipate the needs of the front of house operations and carry those tasks out with confidence and independence.
• Assist with the training of front of house volunteers. 
• Along with the House Manager, troubleshoot any ticketing, seating, and accessibility issues that may arise. 
• Maintain a safe and inviting environment for all theatergoers.
• Support concessions setup and sales, and prepare the lobby for intermission and post-show activities.
• Coordinate with the House Manager to manage late seating as needed.
• Monitor the audience during the show and assist with theater cleanup, concessions close-out, and lobby reset post-show. 

• Enthusiastic self-starter who confidently takes initiative and solves problems independently.  
• Ability to resolve issues promptly and creatively while maintaining a lively and engaging atmosphere. Service with a smile!
• Technically savvy and comfortable with POS devices.
• A passion for the performing arts.
• Preferred but not required, experience in front-of-house operations, theater ushering roles, or similar volunteer work. If no previous experience, demonstrate a willingness to acquire and develop the skills essential to front-of-house management.

TIMELINE / APPLICATION PROCESS:

• Applications will be reviewed as they are received
• Interviews will begin shortly thereafter
• We hope to have the position filled by September 2025

HOW TO APPLY: Email Marielle Shiring, Patron Services Manager, at mshiring@ctmtheater.org with the subject line "Lead Usher Applicant - Last Name" Please include the following:

• Work Experience or Resume that reflects your qualifications for this position.
• A letter of interest or video describing your interest and experience as it relates to this position, and what excites you about the role.

Children’s Theater of Madison is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.